COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCE

GLOBAL TREND
GROUP ASSIGNMENT(section 5)

Group Members. ID No

Eldana Gashaye. UGR/8893/16

Hana Tegene UGR/0532/16
Hana dereje. UGR/4632/16
Eden temesgen. UGR/3694/16
Fitsum Tsegaye. UGR/0793/16
Zerihun Tsegaye UGR/5274/16

Submitted to=Dr.Haileyesus
Submission Date=may 25,2024
Content table

1. Introduction
2. Historical Context and Global Implications
3. Current Geopolitical Dynamics and Global Interests
4. Current Geopolitical Dynamics and Global Interests
5. Economic Consequences on the Region and Beyond
6. Societal and Cultural Influences on a Global Scale
7. Global Media Coverage and International Perceptions
8. Conclusion
9. Reference
Introduction

The relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea has been marked by a complex
history of conflict and cooperation, with significant implications not only for
the two countries but also for the wider region and the world. Understanding
this relationship from a global perspective is crucial in order to grasp its full
impact on regional stability and international relations. This paper seeks to
discuss the historical context, current dynamics, and future prospects of the
Ethiopia-Eritrea relationship, taking into account the global interests and
geopolitical complexities involved. By analyzing this relationship from a global
standpoint, we aim to shed light on the underlying factors driving the conflict
and explore potential avenues for peaceful resolution.
 Historical Context and Global
Implications

Relations between Eritrea and Ethiopia have been historically adversarial.

Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993 after the Eritrean War of
Independence, after which relations were cordial.

Eritrea Seceded from Ethiopia through their war of independence (1961-1991).

Eritrea’s independence was formally recognized when it was admitted into the
UN after a referendum in 1993.

In December 2000, Eritrea and Ethiopia signed a peace treaty ending their war
and created a pair of binding judicial commissions, the Eritrea-Ethiopia
Border Commission and the Eritrean-Ethiopian Claims Commission, to rule on
their disputed border and related claims. In April 2002, The Commission
released its decision (with a clarification in 2003).Disagreements following the
war have resulted in stalemate punctuated by periods of elevated tension and
renewed threats of war. Since these decisions Ethiopia has refused to permit the
physical demarcation of the border while Eritrea insists the border must be
demarcated as defined by the commission. Consequently, the Boundary
Commission ruled boundary as virtually demarcated and effective.

Disagreements following the war have resulted in stalemate punctuated by

periods of elevated tension and renewed threats of war. Since these decisions
Ethiopia has refused to permit the physical demarcation of the border while
Eritrea insists the border must be demarcated as defined by the commission.
Consequently, the Boundary Commission ruled boundary as virtually
demarcated and effective.

Eritrea maintains a military force on its border with Ethiopia roughly equal
in size to Ethiopia’s force, which has required a general mobilization of a
significant portion of the population. Eritrea has viewed this border dispute
as an existential threat to itself in particular and the African Union in
general, because it deals with the supremacy of colonial boundaries in Africa.
Since the border conflict, Ethiopia no longer uses Eritrean ports for its trade.
 Current Geopolitical Dynamics and Global
Interests
The 2018 peace agreements between Ethiopia and Eritrea marked a significant
milestone in resolving a conflict that had lasted for two decades. These agreements
were celebrated globally as they promised to end hostilities and normalize relations
between the two neighboring countries. The peace deal included reopening
borders, resuming diplomatic relations, and promoting trade and communication
between the two nations. This was seen as a crucial step towards regional stability
and cooperation in the Horn of Africa However, the implementation of the
agreements has faced several challenges, particularly in terms of accountability and
border demarcation. The lack of a clear and mutualy agreed-upon boundary line
has led to tensions and disputes in certain regions Additionally, there have been
concerns about the commitment of both sides to fully adhere to the terms of the
peace deal. This has raised questions about the durability of the peace and the
potential for renewed conflict if these issues are not adequately addressed. One of
the key obstacles to lasting peace is the socio-economic disparity between Ethiopia
and Eritrea. While Ethiopia has experienced significant economic growth and
development in recent years, Eritrea has remained relatively isolated and
impoverished. This economic imbalance could potentially undermine the peace
process, as it may lead to resentment and dissatisfaction among the populations.
Therefore, it is essential to promote equitable socio-economic development to
ensure that both countries benefit from the peace agreements To address these
challenges, the paper proposes a comprehensive socio-economic development
process that involves cooperation between Ethiopia and Eritrea .This process
would include joint infrastructure projects, trade agreements, and initiatives to
improve education and healthcare. By working together to improve the quality of
life for their citizens, the two countries can build a foundation for lasting peace
and prosperity. Moreover, international organizations and neighboring countries
should support this development process to ensure its success.
In conclusion, while the 2018 peace agreements between Ethiopia and Eritrea were
a significant step towards ending a long-standing conflict, there are still many
challenges to overcome. Issues of accountability, border demarcation, and socio-
economic disparities must be addressed to ensure lasting peace and stability.
By promoting a collaborative socio-economic development process, the two
countries can create a more prosperous future for their citizens and contribute to
regional stability in the Horn of Africa. This approach will require the support
and commitment of both nations, as well as the international community, to be
truly effective.

Economic Consequences on the Region and

Beyond

The Economic Consequences of Ethiopia's Foreign Policy Towards Eritrea

1.) Enhanced relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea could increase trade and
economic cooperation opportunities for both nations. Creating opportunities for
trade and investment by opening borders and forming diplomatic relationships can
result in greater economic integration across borders. This can advantage both
nations by increasing access to markets, boosting economic growth, and generating
job opportunities.
2.) Infrastructure Development: Establishing peaceful relations with Eritrea may
lead to infrastructure development projects that benefit both countries. Enhanced
transportation connections like roads and railways linking Ethiopia to Eritrean
ports on the Red Sea can improve regional connectivity and facilitate trade. This
development of infrastructure has the potential to boost economic growth, draw in
foreign investments, and encourage stability in the region.
3.) Energy Security: By working together in the energy field, Ethiopia and Eritrea
can improve energy security for both countries. Collaborative efforts in hydropower
generation or renewable energy projects can address increasing energy needs, vary
energy resources, and advance sustainable development. Increased energy security
can aid in the promotion of industrial development, enhance quality of life, and
stimulate economic advancement in both nations.
4.) The tourism potential of the region can be unlocked by peaceful relations
between Ethiopia and Eritrea. Both nations have abundant cultural heritage sites,
natural attractions, and historical landmarks that can draw in visitors from home
and abroad. Working together to enhance tourism through shared marketing
initiatives, simplifying visa processes, and upgrading infrastructure can increase
profits from tourism, generate employment in the hospitality industry, and
stimulate economic growth.
5.) Regional Stability and Investment Climate: The stability of the Horn of Africa
region is enhanced by maintaining a stable relationship between Ethiopia and
Eritrea. The presence of political stability and peaceful coexistence in a region can
draw foreign direct investment (FDI), boost economic development, and create a
favorable environment for investment. Investors are more inclined to invest in
countries with peaceful relations that provide stability and predictability.

Societal and Cultural Influences on a

Global Scale

The foreign relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea has been characterized by
social and cultural factors. Understanding this relationship requires delving into
the past, examining the present dynamics, and considering potential pathways for
improvement.

Cultural perspective

Throughout the Ethiopian-Eritrean Diaspora, there have been many multi-ethnic

and bi-national origin community organizations founded by and for Eritreans and
Ethiopians to foster good relationships, promote and express cultural
commonalities well before diplomatic ties between the two countries’ governments
were ever restored. A majority of these organizations are found on
college/university campuses throughout the United States, Canada, and other parts
of the Ethiopian-Eritrean Diaspora

• Language; Main languages Amharic is the official language of Ethiopia,

spoken by the Amhara, and Oromia (or Oromigna/Oromiffa) is spoken by
the Oromo, the largest ethnic group (about 40%). Other tribes include the
Tigray who speak Tigrigna. Tigrinya is the official language of Eritrea,
spoken by the Tigyay

• Traditional family values; Extended families are traditionally the norm

although they tend to be smaller in resettled countries. There is less
segregation between genders in Ethiopian Muslim families than in some
other Islamic cultures. In traditional families males are heads of households
and make decisions in relation to the outside world. However this is
changing rapidly in countries of resettlement Boys and girls receive the same
education, and literacy amongst women is higher than in some other Islamic
cultures. Marriages can be arranged or be of the individual’s choice although
family will need to approve of the match. In some more rural areas marriage
can take place at 14 or 15 and men can have more than one wife (Muslims).
Laws in countries of resettlement alter these norms, Although part of a
collective culture, Ethiopians value independence and are expected to stand
up for their rights and needs. These however, do not override family or
community needs

• Religion ; The reported percentages of religious practitioners belonging to

different religious groups differ amongst sources, however in general it
seems that Muslims (Sunni) and Ethiopian Coptic Church share similar
numbers of practitioners in both countries. Some Oromo follow an
indigenous religion whose God is Waka (Waaqa). For many Oromo this
religion has been incorporated into other religions. Christians within the
Oromo ethnicity tend to be Catholic or Adventist rather than Orthodox as
the latter is associated with the dominant Amhara. In Addition to Islam
and Orthodox Christianity, some Eritreans are animists whose God is
Anna. Roman Catholics and Protestants are also represented in small
numbers in Eritrea.
Social perspective

The foreign relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea has had significant
social impacts, both historically and in more recent times following the thaw in
relations.

Eritrea’s foreign relation with Ethiopia are adversarial immediately after Eritrea’s
independence Ethiopia, relations were cordial despite the former relationship.
Since independence Eritrea’s relation with Ethiopia was entirely political,
especially in the resuscitation and expansion of IGAD’s scope. Since 1998 and the
Eritrean-Ethiopia war the relationship became increasingly hostile.

The peace effort aimed at ending the Ethiopian-Eritrean border war came to a
successful conclusion when Ethiopia and Eritrea signed a comprehensive
agreement in the Algerian capital on 12 December 2000. The official signature by
the belligerents of the Algiers Peace Accord, was attended by prominent
international diplomats and world leaders, including UN Secretary-General Kofi
Annan, OAU Secretary-General Salim Ahmed Salim, and US Secretary of State,
Madeline Albright – a clear indication of the concern of members of the
international community.

The peace accord between Ethiopia and Eritrea included provisions for
investigating the causes of the 1998 conflict and establishing two commissions:
one to demarcate the border and another to address claims for damages. The
Border Commission was tasked with using colonial treaties and international law
to define the border, with its decisions being final and binding. This meant that
when the commission placed the symbolic town of Bad me, where the conflict
began, within Eritrea’s borders, Ethiopia had no legal recourse to contest the
decision.
 Global Media Coverage and International
Perceptions
Conflict is the most dominant aspect of the media coverage of the foreign relations
between Ethiopia and Eritrea over time. A striking example could be observed
at the end of 2020 when border tensions rose to military hostilities. BBC News
in their report stated that “Ethiopian and Eritrean troops have clashed along
their contested border, leaving at least 13 people dead and hundreds displaced.”
UN called for an end to the violence but fighting persisted for days. This event
attracted the attention of regional and international media as a clear indication
of the strained relationship between these two African countries.

People’s understanding of the relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea is therefore

colored by various factors such as political stories and individual experiences. The
following interview conducted by 60 Minutes with the Eritrean President Isaias
Afwerki in 2017 helped shed light on this issue. Specifically, Afwerki discussed
about the long-standing rivalry between his country and Ethiopia and the reason
why he believed that Abiy Ahmed’s attempts to normalize relations were
sincere. Still, he also stressed on practical steps as to how the two countries could
come closer and heal the wounds of the past. This interview was a source of
important information regarding the nature of Ethiopia-Eritrea relations as seen
through the eyes of one of the key participants in the conflict.

To date, Ethiopia-Eritrea relations are still cautious but more friendly after
years of hostility. In July 2018, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited
Asmara, the capital city of Eritrea, becoming the first Ethiopian leader to do so in
over two decades. After that there have been several summits at higher level for
solving out the problems and for enhancing the bilateral relations between the
two countries. Nevertheless, there are still some problems: border issues and
human rights violations in both states. Further, the media keeps reporting new
tendencies in this relationship and people are still skeptical about possibility of
this pair to bring peace and cooperation.
 Conclusion
To sum up the relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea is a multifaceted issue
with profound implications for regional and global stability. The historical context
reveals a legacy of conflict and cooperation that continues to shape the present
dynamics between the two nations. Current geopolitical interests underscore the
significance of this relationship on the international stage, involving various
global actors and influencing broader geopolitical strategies.

Economic ties and disruptions between Ethiopia and Eritrea have had tangible
impacts on regional development, illustrating the interconnected nature of
economic stability and political relations. Similarly, societal and cultural factors
play a crucial role in either exacerbating tensions or fostering reconciliation,
demonstrating the importance of understanding local contexts in global diplomacy.

Media coverage and international perceptions also significantly affect how the
conflict is viewed and addressed globally. Balanced and accurate reporting is
essential to foster a comprehensive understanding and to guide effective policy
decisions.

Overall, a multifaceted approach that considers historical context, current

geopolitical realities, economic implications, societal influences, and media
portrayals is necessary to navigate the complexities of the Ethiopia-Eritrea
relationship. By fostering dialogue, promoting economic cooperation, and
encouraging cultural understanding, the international community can contribute
to a sustainable and peaceful resolution, benefiting not only Ethiopia and Eritrea
but also the wider region and the world. The insights gained from this analysis
underscore the importance of global perspectives in addressing local conflicts,
paving the way for more effective and inclusive international relations.
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